< PreviousCover feature commercialinteriordesign.com March 2022 30 The Lithuania Pavilion at Expo 2020 , architect/co- founder of MB BAUKAS, the architects of the Lithuania Pavilion I contributed to all phases of creating the Lithuania pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai, starting from architectural concept design, then going through design phase and fi nally design project supervision. At all stages, attention was drawn to the sustainability theme chosen for Lithuania: the aim was to create an environmentally-friendly building, using innovative solar technology, simple volumetric and structural solutions of the pavilion which will be easy to dismantle, to recycle materials leaving minimum impact to the landfi ll after the event ends in March. For example, glue laminated timber made in Lithuania is used for the pavilion structure, which is both renewable and recyclable. I believe that there is no a greener gender. It depends on our daily consumer choices and individual care or mind set about environmental problems. However, research shows that women have higher levels of social responsibility and environmental behaviours. In the fi eld of architecture or interior design, sustainable design doesn't have special appeal for women. In my opinion, sustainable design principles work as an important tool during the design process, for every gender. In commercial interior design we face challenges related to searching and fi nding new products or sustainable materials that can help to fulfi l the interior idea. The market is full of well-known brands, but the ecological footprint of those brands production sometimes leave much concern. So, we try to experiment as much as possible, looking for local manufacturers or even creating and producing unique, custom- made objects and materials. Huge improvements during my time working in the design sector have been related with virtual reality, 3D modeling, BIM and the ability to use different kinds of software in the design process. All those things especially helps us in architectural design to avoid design clashes, optimise processes in the construction phase, avoid mistakes and wasting materials. Image credit: Suneesh Sudhakarani/ Expo 2020 Dubai Our aim was to create a green building...Cover feature 31 March 2022 commercialinteriordesign.com Women's Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai Nourah Gargash , Manager, participant management, Expo 2020 Dubai At a global level, the Gender Equality and Women's Empowerment (GEWE) agenda is still at the centre of development issues and a lot still need to be done. Expo 2020 Dubai's collaboration with Cartier on the Women's Pavilion illustrates our shared belief that GEWE cannot be achieved without making this a priority for all – the public sector, private sector, non-profi ts, civil society, and even at an individual level. At Expo 2020 Dubai, we believe that women and girls are so essential to the resolution of our most important challenges, that we have placed them at the heart of our programming, before and during the event, and by having a dedicated space where we will shed light on women's success, achievements, but also on the challenges they're still facing. Both Expo 2020 and Cartier are driven by a common conviction that gender equality and women's empowerment are critical for sustainable growth and that this can only be achieved by shared responsibility. Our goal is to achieve – not just promote – gender equality, and empower all women and girls, reinforcing that women's issues are everyone's issues, and all issues are women's issues. Together with Cartier, we have brought in a community of creators and artists, refl ecting diversity of thought, culture, backgrounds, perspectives and expressions, just like the Pavilion itself, to really bring this shared vision to life through their artistic expressions. We are supported by strong advocates, such as Phumzile Mlambo Ngcuka, former executive director of UN Women, who have joined and supported the project since the beginning, and have also commissioned four artists to take part in this adventure: Laura Gonzalez, a French architect who has contributed to the design of the upper part of the pavilion's façade, together with Dubai born artist Kholoud Sharafi and French light designer Pauline David; Melanie Laurent, French actress, director and singer who is curating the exhibition space on the upper fl oor; Nadine Labaki, Lebanese actress and fi lm maker who is working on the immersive movie at the entrance, highlighting children's eyes on women; and fi nally a man, eL Seed, whose artwork takes over the lower part of the pavilion's façade. The main objective behind the design and architecture of the 1300 sqm of the Pavilion is to take visitors on a compelling and immersive journey through fi ve key moments, showcasing those who have contributed to women's empowerment and gender equality from history to today. For the fi rst moment on the ground fl oor, the inspiration behind the design and curation of the pavilion were the constellation of stars, the universe, and nature. The use of stars at the beginning of the visitor's journey symbolises how women light the way for future generations. We shine a light on their achievements by featuring them as constellations of stars, whose legacies continue to live on. As the journey continues, we showcase the solutions that have enabled women and humanity to thrive by spotlighting women who are driving change. Finally, we invite visitors to take a pledge, to join the journey to keep the world progressing in the direction of achieving gender equality. On the upper fl oor, an immersive art exhibition that ignites dialogue across artistic, cultural, and social fi elds awaits visitors. We also wanted to create a space that fostered dialogue throughout the six months of Expo. We recognise that there is still a lot to achieve, and that is what the Majlis is for – a platform where we convene a diverse community of artists, scientists, thought leaders, politicians, and businesswomen from all walks of life. We have welcomed incredible speakers such as Zuzana Caputová, President of Slovakia; Ana Brnabic, the Prime Minister of Serbia; Hind Al-Zahid, Deputy Minister of Women's Empowerment, Saudi Arabia, and many more. The series also hosts speakers from non-government organisations, such as Phumzile Mlambo Ngcuka, founder of the Mlambo Foundation. These are just a few examples of what you'll fi nd at the Women's Pavilion, where we have a packed programme of more than 170 events, especially for International Women's Day, which will actually take place for three days from 6 to 8 March 2022, and will gather world leaders in politics, business, technology and culture to shine a spotlight on gender, celebrate female talent, and catalyse urgent change. Image credit: Walaa Alshaer/Expo 2020 Dubai We created a space to foster dialogueIN TOUCH Colours, textures and tech – emerging trends for surface design SPECIAL REPORT The new Cortina tile collection by Italian ceramics fi rm Ceramiche Refi n commercialinteriordesign.com March 2022 32PAGE 34 Ceramiche Refi n explores Alpine heritage to launches range of tiles that mimic wood PAGE 36 Scoring points with surface elements at new NETTE restaurant by H2R Design PAGE 38 Talking textures with Kanika Puri, incoming design director at dwp's Dubai studio Images: Ceramiche SURFACES 33 March 2022 commercialinteriordesign.com Special Report commercialinteriordesign.com March 2022 34 H istory and nature meet in a new porcelain stoneware collection. Cortina by Ceramiche Refi n is inspired by wood recovered from Alpine huts and combines the strength of stone with the appearance of wood. The tiles are designed to look like wooden planks and have markings that appear on wood due to time and weather. The new collection is available in four shades – almond, honey, natural, and tobacco that combine with the peculiar veining of larch, pine, and fi r wood. It was presented during the last edition of Cersaie – also know as the International Exhibition of Ceramic Tile and Bathroom Furnishings. Previously, the Italian ceramic brand has turned to its country's rich history and launched a collection of porcelain tiles that reference the textured surfaces and rich colours of traditional frescos. Research carried out by the brand saw its teams learning about craft techniques from artisans in the mountains of Northern Italy. Ceramiche Refi n worked closely with the carpentries in the Belluno area and analysed boards found in traditional wooden chalets and looked at how they were used in luxury contexts. SELECTING THE STAVES The staves that inspired the collection were individually chosen from 121 examples of different woods recovered from alpine huts and barns built more than 50 years ago. The fi nal result is a set of tiles that tell the story of wood aging through exciting colour combinations and a variety of shades as if they were burnished by the sun, and polished by the rain, during long exposures in the mountains. As stoneware, the collection is able to adapt to heavy wear and tear or foot traffi c, yet still bringing with it the delicate contrasts and the warm elegance of wood. BREAKING THE CLICHÉ Skirting and decorations to that complement the staves are available in all PASSION ENGRAINED NEW PRODUCTS & SERVICES Image credit: Ceramiche Re fi n/ v2comSpecial Report 35 March 2022 commercialinteriordesign.com of the colours of the collection. These include the animated Esagono hexagonal shaped tiles format; herringbone that breaks the cliché of the traditional slatted fl oor, and chalet, available in different sizes, which is inspired by the warmth of typical mountain chalets. "The new Cortina collection, presented by Ceramiche Refi n during the last edition of Cersaie, is the result of passionate research into the deepest fi bres of wood, carried out through an in-depth exploration of the natural beauty and ancient craftsmanship techniques that still survive in the most beautiful mountains of Northern Italy," the brand says in conclusion. The herringbone style of tiles There are four shades in the collection Ready for heavy wear and tear About Ceramiche Refi n An Italian company that has been active in international markets since 1962, Ceramiche Refi n is part of Gruppo Concorde, one of the largest ceramics manufacturers in Europe. Ceramiche Refi n offers a wide range of porcelain stoneware solutions for the residential and contract sector.Special Report commercialinteriordesign.com March 2022 36 CASE STUDY: NETTE RESTAURANT BY H2R DESIGN N ETTE is an unusual location with an unusual location; a French Japanese restaurant located in MATCHA Club, Al Quoz's newest boutique padel and movement club. Taking inspiration from the energising racquet sport that's a current global fitness craze, the venue has been inspired by the net, the court, and the game of padel, whilst also being functional as a dining space. Surface materials were a key element of the project, which follows on from the success of nearby restaurant Cassette in The Courtyard, as the second venue entirely conceptualised, designed and curated by the team behind H2R Design. Minimal tones The space of NETTE itself evokes the tranquil ambience of the brand perfectly. A rectangular design with floor to ceiling windows, it has an abundance of natural light that is blended beautifully with hues of terracotta, as well as green, grey and natural beige tones, skillfully kept as minimalist as possible to let the materials and furnishings set the scene. To complement MATCHA Club's distinct geometric style of artistic furniture and lush landscaping, habitual materials have been used as much as possible to contrast the industrial feel of the surrounding area, resulting in an urban sanctuary in the heart of the Club. Accents and intricacy Stunning marble has been used throughout the entire space but most notably on the coffee bar, the custom-made communal Nette in Al Quoz, Dubai Seating surrounds a statement tree IMAGES: INGRID RASMUSSEN The French x Japanese concept in boutique padel club, DubaiSpecial Report 37 March 2022 commercialinteriordesign.com the casual and yet elegant effortlessness of the space and dining experience. Inspired by the padel courts (used as a grid to collect the logo mark), as well as the geometric design of the space and its interiors, the typography is simple and yet edgy, whilst the colour palette evokes the same tranquil feeling that guests feel when arriving at the venue. The geometric shapes have also been used throughout the visual identity, in a way to blend seamlessly with the space. The role of tactility Hasan Roomi, co-founder of H2R design, said: "As we know, good design is so much more than just a well decorated space with a trendy aesthetic. "For us, tactility and materiality play an integral role in the design experience, particularly within a consumer-led space such as a restaurant, hotel or hospitality venue within a very cluttered market such as Dubai. "A venue like NETTE that is very much inspired by its wider destination within MATCHA Club has several different materials to add life to its space, curated in a way to complement the visual aesthetic and brand experience, but also, crucially, the operational experience of the venue. "To complement MATCHA Club's distinct geometric style of artistic furniture and lush landscaping, habitual materials have been used as much as possible to contrast the industrial feel of the surrounding area, resulting in an urban sanctuary in the heart of the Club. "Stunning Travertino Red marble is the feature stone in the space. Most notably on the coffee bar, the custom- made communal table that holds court in the centre of the interior space, and the outdoor planters in the courtyard, each handcrafted with colour accents of white, Gaya and Indian green. These details and accents seamlessly tie the overlook look and feel together, offering a depth of intricacy to match all tables, shelves, counter and waiter stations. "We also have a textured paint backdrop (behind the coffee bar) that follows the same concept of play of geometry, with grooved textures placed at different orientations." table that holds court in the centre of the interior space, and the outdoor planters in the courtyard, each handcrafted with colours such as Travertino Red with accents of Gaya and Indian green. These details and accents seamlessly tie the overlook look and feel together, offering a depth of intricacy to match all tables, shelves, counter and waiter stations. The interior restaurant offers an open coffee bar, with textured paint acting as a backdrop to the counter, whilst the communal table is completed with striking Hampton Teak and leather strapping chairs. Cosy with copper Paying close attention to every element, the restaurant also comprises of tasteful greenery and citrus trees, essentially bringing the outdoors in to enhance the overall feel of nature and tranquillity. The space is also home to impressive touches of wood, which is accompanied by accents of aged effect copper and black details, providing an extra layer of warmth and cosiness. Building on the relaxed narrative, the outdoor area is situated under a beautiful, shaded courtyard and seats up to 43 guests. With the use of natural light and a statement mango tree in the middle, the intimate yet social space will appeal to anyone looking for a moment of Zen in the concrete jungle. Geometric shapes The branding of NETTE itself also reflects Chairs with leather strapping Marble accents on outdoor plantersThe paint backdrop is texturedSpecial Report commercialinteriordesign.com March 2022 38 OPINION B eing a designer observing, exploring and translating culture into inspiration and infl uences comes naturally. Having lived in Singapore for over six years, walking around the city one imbibes the love for use of colour, as it is ever- present in all the places. Initially, it felt avant-garde and excessive, but as you co- exist in the spaces and weave the culture with the stories being told via the medium of design and architecture, it starts to feel comfortable and beautiful. City surfaces The rhythmic texture of the roof tiles on the buildings, the intricate patterns in their Peranakan tiles, the hanging paper lanterns and the colourful window shutters all add to the layered cultural nuances. In the traditional thatched Malay Kampong Houses, wooden fl oor boards made from local Meranti would be used. In modern-day residential developments that still is the case, the rooms always have hardwood fl oors which look very appropriate for the garden city. But the fl ooring that can traditionally be seen in their kopitiam [traditional coffee shop] and shophouses are predominantly their beautifully crafted tiles. I would love to say I took to colours immediately, but I fi rst developed my interpretations of textures, the simplicity of creating an impact by using subtle repetition, but as I became more acclimatized I started expressing my narrative via the intensity of colour. Musings of a newcomer Kanika Puri, Design Director at dwp Dubai studio One of Kanika's pre-dwp projects demonstrates the power of textureSpecial Report 39 March 2022 commercialinteriordesign.com Colours with caution As designers we often err on the side of caution, believing that the use of colours could restrict us. I feel the opposite is true, one only truly enjoys the colourful with the balance or contrast of the neutral. The same holds true for textures, one appreciates the tactile elements offset against the plain. I think great examples of that are some of my favourite projects in Singapore, Atlas Bar, Sixth Senses Duxton Hill, and the Kempinksi Hotel designed by Jaya Ibrahim. In keeping with the topic of contrasts, and from where I began, the tropics to the desert. The clear blue skies against the desert sand is an extremely stark contrast as is, the neutral tones ease their way in. The Boat Quay area of Singapore Arab Street shows off Singapore's colourful surfaces Here's Kanika Puri If I am to compare the style of the infl uences here, I would say the tactile textural elements are used ever so creatively that the impact is very dramatic. The Islamic architectural screens have evolved into art pieces. But in my humble opinion, the colours are still used with a certain amount of constraint. I hope to be able to create an impact on the projects that I am working on by adding a touch of Asian fl avour. Journey through culture Dubai has come a very long way from using corals [in its housing]; its love for marble on fl oors I feel still mimics a glistening mirage. Dubai's landscape is mesmerising; the city's tenacity and acceptance of people from all over the world make it truly unique from a cultural standpoint and extremely exciting from a designer's perspective. A myriad of cultures lends itself to a place where one can experiment and reinvent, quite as the city does. I am in awe of the places I have visited so far, but haven't been able to land on my favourites yet. I am, at this stage, quite similar to a sponge; keen to absorb what the places have to offer. I am intrigued by the scale and vision of the projects being undertaken here, it truly feels like the perfect place for dreamers. I am keen to grow and evolve further as my journey continues here in the Middle East. Moving from the tropics of Singapore to the UAE desert, from a lush green oasis to ever- evolving cityscape, Puri joined the Dubai offi ce of dwp in 2022. The design director brings with her 18 years of extensive experience as an interior designer across various sectors, predominantly in hospitality and F&B design, but also across residential, workplace and retail. Meet the authorNext >